Having a beautiful and contemporary garden on your property is an incredibly good way to unwind after a busy day at work and a great place to spend social time with friends and family. Although space can sometimes be limited in modern urban homes, you may be surprised with the effects and beauty you can create.

A contemporary garden can create colour, texture, atmospheres and rooms as long as you plan carefully and seek the advice of professionals where necessary. Below I have included a brief guide to several modern garden themes that you could work towards in your urban home.

Patio gardens. These are fantastic for very small back gardens and for people who wish to have a low maintenance contemporary outdoor space. There are many modern and attractive types of patio slabs and bricks that provide great seating and socialising space all year round. You can add colour, greenery and softness to patios with pots and hanging baskets. Why not add a brick barbecue onto your patio?

Zen Gardens. This theme lends itself to the far east such as Japanese and Chinese culture, think about delicate plants with the vivid colours, gravel gardens and the use of rock formations. Water features also play an important part in these meditative, peaceful and tranquil atmospheres.

Country Gardens. Yes, country gardens can be contemporary and modern. The secret is in the furniture and layout. Traditional borders can be shaped to look modern and cool, and it is also possible to add 21st century decoration, furniture and water features to bring the classic look into an urban environment. I hope these ideas will get your creative juices flowing and inspire you to create a relaxing and enjoyable contemporary garden at your home. Think of how pleasurable it will be to spend time with family and friends in your new outdoor space.